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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Bray-sur-Seine Hall was built between 1841 and 1842 to replace an old hall in poor condition. The project, entrusted to architect Émile Jacques Gilbert (1793-1874), was decided by the municipal council in 1839. Gilbert, known for his achievements as the Hospice de Charenton or the Hôtel-Dieu de Paris, designed a stone and chestnut structure, with a structure completed in 1842 by carpenter Guillaume Besse. The hall initially housed three markets: cattle, cereals and a general market.

In 1864, the hall was strengthened by the addition of four cast iron columns. It retained its market function and original dispositions until major restoration in 2006-2007. This project, funded by the State (FISAC), the region, the department, the commune (34%) and the Fondation du Patrimoine (champion of Total), was led by the heritage architect André Drozd. Since then, the lobby has hosted every Friday morning the local market, in the heart of the historic city centre.

Listed in the Supplementary Inventory of Historic Monuments in 1998, the hall is distinguished by its chestnut frame, central lantern and 16 stone pillars. Its architecture reflects the economic needs of the 19th century, where the halls served as a central place for trade and social exchange. The Bray-sur-Seine Hall, with its paved floor and zinc cover, also illustrates the evolution of the construction techniques of the time.

The building is located on a strategic square, at the crossroads of the main streets of the village, highlighting its historic role in community life. Its inscription in the heritage protects today this testimony of the 19th century utilitarian architecture, while perpetuating its original commercial vocation.

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